Blue Back Square Hosts 2nd Annual Gingerbread House Competition

READER SUBMITTED:

Before long, streets and homes will soon be adorned with festive lights and decorations as November officially launches the start of the holiday season. Once again, an annual holiday tradition in West Hartford's Blue Back Square will return- The Gingerbread House Show & Competition, which will be held from December 6th-9th. The event is especially meaningful as the holidays are a time to give back and all proceeds from this event help Hartford Area Habitat for Humanity build stable communities through homeownership.

"This is a great way to elevate awareness about Habitat's mission to offer those in need simple, decent and affordable housing in our community," said Barbara Lerner, Project Marketing Manager at Blue Back Square.

The contest is calling on anyone who thinks they have the creative skills and culinary talent to craft a gingerbread house worthy of winning top honors. In addition, local media personalities and community stakeholders are being put to the challenge. Television, radio, newspaper and other major community citizens, including government officials and business leaders are encouraged to participate.

"This is a fun approach to increasing community involvement in Habitat for Humanity," said Mary Nurse, Marketing and Communications Development Officer for Hartford Habitat. "Whether you are helping out with a hammer and nails or by constructing a gingerbread house, the effort is appreciated and worthwhile."

Those interested, can enter in one of three categories: Traditional Non-Traditional Great Hartford Landmark

All entries must be entirely edible and contain no produce, dairy or meat products. Completed houses must be delivered to the event space on Tuesday, Dec. 4, between 8 and 10 a.m.; 4 to 7 p.m. or Wednesday, Dec. 5, between 12 and 1 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m. Dimensions should not exceed 3 feet wide x 3 feet deep x 2 feet high. Judging will take place Thursday morning, Dec. 6.

Winning gingerbread houses will be auctioned off live on Sun., Dec. 9th. All others will be part of an ongoing silent auction held throughout the event, December 6th through 9th. For more information on the competition or the auction events, go to http://www.hartfordhabitat.org or contact Mary Nurse at 860-541-2208 ex: 102.